Introducing a new coping method into our lives

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Coping Strategies
Part 18 - Introducing a new coping method into our lives

Introducing a new coping method into our lives

Let us now focus our minds on how we can introduce a new coping strategy into our lives. For, while it may seem like a simple task, without the motivation and determination to keep it in mind/fit it into our routine/stick it in our to-do list, it is going to get forgotten about.

One way to remember the new coping strategy (CS) is to set about launching it. Have a date when you will use it or practise it. Give yourself a week’s run-up to the time and date.
E.g.:
Once the time has come and gone, you may wish also to rate how effective the CS was and whether or not any tweaks or adaptations need to be made.
Secondly, keep the strategy in mind by either putting the name or a drawing of it in your diary. You could put up a chart on the wall, or carry something around with you that will remind you what you are doing, such as wearing a wristband.

Thirdly, do you need to do anything in preparation of the CS, such as buying an item of clothing or rearranging your ongoing daily commitment?

New coping strategies case study: Lesley’s realistic approach

Lesley likes the idea of so many of the coping strategies, yet he is also a realist and knows that when it comes down to it, he doesn’t have a lot of time or motivation in his life right now to fit many of them in. He decides to design a recovery bag over the course of the week, to do one short session of physical exercise a week, to eat one new piece of fruit/veg a week and to focus on a mantra that he can learn to repeat in his head over and over again.

Lesley wrote each one down like this one:
Coping strategy #1: MantraDetails:
WhenIn the morning when I wake up. To and from work. Before I go to sleep.
WhereIn bed. On the bus.
HowBy repeating the same words over and over in my head for at least 3 minutes at a time.
With whatWith my own personal mantra.
With whomWith myself.
You are encouraged to do the same, using the same template.

My new coping strategies details

Coping strategy #1:Details:
When
Where
How
With what
With whom
Coping strategy #2:Details:
When
Where
How
With what
With whom
Coping strategy #3:Details:
When
Where
How
With what
With whom

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